Cheesy Shrimp Crab Bake (Printer-Friendly Version)
Savory shrimp and crab baked with creamy cheeses and Old Bay for a golden, melty seafood delight.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Seafood
01 -
1 cup cooked shrimp, chopped
02 -
1 cup lump crab meat, drained
→ Dairy
03 -
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
04 -
1/2 cup sour cream
05 -
1 cup shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese, divided
06 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Seasonings
07 -
1 teaspoon minced garlic
08 -
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
09 -
1/4 teaspoon salt
10 -
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
11 -
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
→ Garnish
12 -
2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives, divided
→ Serving
13 -
Sliced toasted baguette or sturdy crackers
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, Old Bay seasoning, salt, black pepper, and hot sauce if using. Whip with a spatula or hand mixer for about 3 minutes until smooth and airy.
02 -
Gently fold in chopped cooked shrimp, drained lump crab, half of the mozzarella cheese, all of the Parmesan, and half of the green onions or chives. Mix carefully to preserve the texture of the crab.
03 -
Spoon the mixture into a medium oven-safe baking dish. Smooth the top and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the surface.
04 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Place the dish in the center rack and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbling at the edges, and turning golden brown.
05 -
Switch oven to broil and broil for 1 to 2 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly, watching carefully to avoid burning.
06 -
Sprinkle the remaining green onions or chives over the hot dip. Serve immediately with toasted baguette slices or sturdy crackers.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Let cream cheese reach room temperature prior to mixing for a smooth base. Avoid overmixing after adding seafood to maintain texture. This dip freezes well before baking.